Fresh berry cream cake, a symphony of sweet and tangy flavors mingling in a cloud of whipped perfection. This isn’t just any cake; it’s a reminder of sun drenched summer days, laughter filled picnics, and the simple joy of sharing something delicious with loved ones. This fresh berry cream cake recipe is inspired by my grandmother’s classic chantilly cake recipe, elevated with a generous helping of seasonal berries.
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Why You Will Love This fresh berry cream cake Recipe
This berry cream cake is irresistible. It’s that simple. The light and airy sponge cake, the luscious chantilly cream, and the burst of fresh berries create a taste sensation that is both comforting and elegant. It’s quick to assemble, especially if you use a store bought sponge cake (I won’t tell!), and the flavors are guaranteed to impress. My favorite memory is bringing this cake to a potluck and watching everyone’s eyes light up with each bite. It’s truly special.
I especially love it because it’s such a crowd pleaser. Even people who don’t typically enjoy sweets often say they like this cake because it’s not too rich and the berries add a natural brightness.
Ingredients Needed for This fresh berry cream cake Recipe
For the Cake:
- 1 (10 inch) pre made sponge cake, or your favorite vanilla cake recipe.
- 1/2 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and sugar, simmered until sugar dissolves then cooled)
For the Chantilly Cream:
- 2 cups heavy cream, very cold
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional, but adds a wonderful depth of flavor)
For the Berry Topping:
- 2 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries), washed and hulled/stemmed as needed
Instructions to make This fresh berry cream cake Recipe
How to Make This fresh berry cream cake Recipe
- Prepare the chantilly cream: In a large, chilled bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using).
- Using an electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer) beat on medium speed until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
- Prepare the cake: If using a store bought sponge cake, gently brush the top of each layer with the simple syrup. This will add moisture and enhance the flavor. If using a homemade cake, you might not need this step.
- Assemble the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of chantilly cream evenly over the top.
- Arrange half of the fresh berries over the cream.
- Carefully place the second cake layer on top of the berries and cream.
- Repeat steps 4 and 5 with the remaining cream and berries, creating a beautiful and enticing top layer.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the cream to set.
How to Serve This fresh berry cream cake Recipe
This fresh berry cream cake is perfect served chilled. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side is always a welcome addition. For a special touch, drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup over the berries just before serving. Consider pairing it with a light and fruity white wine or a sparkling cider for a delightful dessert experience. The cake is also incredible with a cup of tea or coffee.
How to Store This fresh berry cream cake Recipe
Store leftover fresh berry cream cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 2 to 3 days, as the berries may start to soften. Freezing is not recommended, as the chantilly cream can lose its texture.
Tips to Make This fresh berry cream cake Recipe
- For the best results, make sure your heavy cream is very cold before whipping. This will help it whip up quickly and hold its shape better.
- Don’t overwhip the cream, or it will turn grainy. Whip just until stiff peaks form.
- Feel free to swap out the berries for other fruits, such as peaches, nectarines, or kiwi.
- If you’re short on time, use store bought whipped cream. However, homemade chantilly cream is worth the extra effort!
- To prevent the cake from sliding when slicing, use a serrated knife and make sure the cake is well chilled.
Helpful Notes for This fresh berry cream cake Recipe
The simple syrup not only adds moisture but also a subtle sweetness. Feel free to infuse it with lemon zest, orange zest, or vanilla bean for added flavor complexity. You can also use this to enhance flavor on Italian Cream Cake. The almond extract is optional in the chantilly cream, but I find it adds a lovely warmth and depth of flavor that complements the berries beautifully. If you don’t have almond extract, you can substitute a few drops of orange blossom water.
Variation of This fresh berry cream cake Recipe
For a seasonal twist, try using different berries depending on the time of year. In the fall, cranberries and blackberries would be delicious. In the spring, strawberries and raspberries are perfect. You could also add a layer of lemon curd between the cake layers for a tangy and refreshing variation. For a richer flavor, use mascarpone cheese in addition to the heavy cream in the chantilly cream. Or try making it a Layered Italian Cream Cake
What berries are best for a fresh berry cream cake?
A mix of berries like strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries works wonderfully. Choose seasonal berries for the freshest and most flavorful result.
How do I prevent my fresh berry cream cake from getting soggy?
Make sure your cake layers are completely cooled before assembling. Also, brush the cake layers with a simple syrup to create a moisture barrier and prevent the cream from soaking in too quickly.
Can I make fresh berry cream cake ahead of time?
While the cake is best enjoyed fresh, you can assemble it a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Be aware that the berries might release some juices over time.
What is chantilly cream and can I substitute it?
Chantilly cream is simply sweetened whipped cream, often flavored with vanilla. You can substitute it with other frosting options, but it perfectly complements fresh berry cream cake since is light and not overly sweet.
How long will fresh berry cream cake last?
Fresh berry cream cake is best consumed within 1-2 days of making it. Store it in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.
Conclusion
This fresh berry cream cake is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its simplicity, coupled with the harmonious blend of flavors and textures, makes it an instant winner. We hope you enjoy making and sharing this fresh berry cream cake as much as we do. Let us know in the comments if you try this recipe!
Fresh Berry Cream Cake: The BEST Easy Chantilly Recipe!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A light and delicious fresh berry cream cake featuring a sponge cake, chantilly cream, and a medley of fresh berries. Perfect for any summer celebration!
Ingredients
- 1 (10 inch) pre made sponge cake
- 1/2 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and sugar)
- 2 cups heavy cream, very cold
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 2 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
Instructions
- Prepare the chantilly cream.
- Prepare the cake with simple syrup.
- Assemble the cake by layering cake, cream, and berries.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: berry cake, fresh berries, chantilly cream, easy dessert